It’s no surprise that dogs have become integral members of many U.S. families, with nearly 45% of homeowners sharing their lives with these loyal companions.[1] However, dog owners need to consider their furry friends when purchasing home insurance.
Most standard homeowners insurance policies include liability coverage for dog-related injuries, whether on or off your property. Nevertheless, some insurers restrict coverage for specific breeds or significantly increase premiums for homes with dogs. This guide from Insurify explores which home insurance companies are considered dog-friendly and outlines how your dog may impact your home insurance rates.
Quick Facts
- Some insurers classify certain breeds, such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers, as ‘aggressive’ or higher risk.
- State Farm is ‘breed-blind,’ meaning they don’t inquire about your dog’s breed during rate calculations.
- Some states, including New York and Pennsylvania, prohibit insurers from denying coverage based on a dog’s breed.
5 Best Dog-Friendly Home Insurance Companies
The most suitable dog-friendly home insurance provider depends on individual circumstances. However, the following five insurers are a great starting point for your search:
Note: The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses over 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies, providing potential clients a reliable estimate of their expected quality of service.
Best Insurer for Low Rates: American Family
American Family offers competitive rates, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners. However, it’s essential to note that they may have breed restrictions, and they suggest considering additional liability or umbrella insurance.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Below-average home insurance rates, many discounts.
- Cons: Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction score, may limit coverage based on dog breed and size.
Best Insurer for Discounts: Liberty Mutual
Liberty Mutual is a strong choice if you’re searching for home insurance that provides liability coverage for dog-related injuries. They offer diverse discounts, particularly for bundling home and auto insurance, or for setting up automatic payments. You may even be able to bundle home and pet insurance to qualify for a discount.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Many discounts available, offers pet insurance.
- Cons: Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction score, mixed customer reviews.
Best Insurer for Robust Coverage: Nationwide
Nationwide’s standard homeowners insurance policies include liability coverage for dog bite claims. The company clarifies that coverage may be contingent on your dog’s breed or bite history. Nationwide provides various optional add-ons, such as water backup, earthquake, and flood insurance.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Plenty of optional coverages, offers pet insurance.
- Cons: Premiums are on the higher side, below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction score.
Best Insurer for Restricted Breeds: State Farm
State Farm distinguishes itself by being breed-blind, not considering a dog’s breed when determining your policy, which benefits owners of breeds often denied coverage.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: No dog breed restrictions, above-average J.D. Power customer and claims satisfaction ratings.
- Cons: Fewer discounts than some competitors, may lack the regional knowledge of a smaller insurer.
Best Insurer for Military Families: USAA
USAA’s comprehensive policies often include coverage for dog bites within their standard home insurance personal liability provisions. While owning a large dog may influence rates, USAA’s highly-rated policies make it an excellent option for eligible individuals (veterans, active military, and their families).
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Below-average rates, a full-service financial institution.
- Cons: Only available to military families, limited coverage add-ons.
Why Some Home Insurance Companies Aren’t Dog-Friendly
Medical and legal expenses from dog bites can quickly accumulate, prompting certain home insurance providers to limit their exposure by restricting coverage for specific breeds. For example, breeds with a history of hunting or guarding may have a higher incidence of bites.
Owning a dog simply increases the risk for insurance companies. Nevertheless, many major insurers offer liability insurance to cover dog-related injuries.[2] Others assess each dog on a case-by-case basis and do not ask about the breed.
Common Restricted Dog Breeds
Though serious dog incidents are rare, insurers commonly restrict the following breeds from coverage:
- American Bulldog
- Chow Chow
- Doberman Pinscher
- German Shepherd
- Great Dane
- Mastiff/Bullmastiff
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Rottweiler
- Siberian Husky
- St. Bernard
Many animal rights groups emphasize the difficulty of breed-specific classifications due to extensive breed mixing. Therefore, breed-specific details about dog aggression should be regarded as estimates.[3]
Good to Know
If your dog is one of these breeds, some insurance companies may consider their bite history and restrict coverage. You may have an easier time getting coverage if your dog earns an American Kennel Club Good Citizen certification.
Can Your Insurer Deny or Cancel Your Policy Because You Have a Certain Dog Breed?
Insurers have the right to deny coverage if you have a high-risk dog and might cancel your policy should a severe dog-related injury occur on your property. Many insurers offer homeowners policies to dog owners, though costs might be higher than average.
Dog-Related Incidents That Homeowners Insurance Covers
Standard home insurance policies contain liability coverage, which is activated if a guest is hurt on your property. This liability insurance includes coverage for dog-related incidents. Here are some specific incidents that are covered:
- Dog bites: Home insurance covers medical bills and legal fees resulting from a dog bite, up to policy limits.[4]
- Dog attacks: Standard liability insurance covers injuries from dog attacks, particularly concerning young children.
- Dog-related damage to neighbor’s property: If your dog damages a neighbor’s property, your home insurance may cover those damages.
Dog-Related Incidents That Homeowners Insurance Doesn’t Cover
Homeowners insurance does not cover all dog-related incidents. Here are some situations where your insurance won’t apply:
- Dog-related property damage: Damage to your property, such as a chewed couch or scratched floor, is typically not covered.
- Injuries to members of the household: Liability coverage usually only extends to injured guests, not household members. Your health insurance can help with any associated medical costs.
- Injuries to your dog: Pet insurance is needed if your dog suffers an injury that needs veterinary care.
How Dogs Affect Home Insurance Rates
Owning a dog generally influences your home insurance rates. Insurers usually consider a dog an increased risk and charge higher rates. Breeds with more documented dog bites are often more expensive to insure. Some insurers may deny coverage based on the breed.
The rate increase varies by company. Getting quotes from multiple insurance companies can help you find a dog-friendly home insurance policy within your budget.
Do You Need to Tell Your Home Insurance Company If You Have a Dog?
Yes. It is important to always inform your home insurance company about any dogs on the premises. Failing to do so when purchasing a policy could lead to claim denials. Policy cancellation or non-renewal may also be a risk if you have a policy without disclosing your dog. It’s important to seek out dog-friendly insurance policies if there’s such a concern.[5]
Some states, including New York, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, require ‘breed-blind insurance,’ which means coverage cannot be denied based on breed.
How to Make Sure Your Home Insurance Policy Covers Your Dog
Here are steps to ensure your dog is covered:
- Research dog-friendly insurance companies: Find online resources offering reviews and insights into costs.
- Talk to your insurance agent: Discuss your dog’s breed and the need for increased liability insurance.
- Make sure you have enough coverage: Determine if you require umbrella liability insurance for extra protection.
Ways to Avoid Dog-Related Home Insurance Claims
Dog owners can take the following precautions to avoid claims:[6]
- Research: Before adoption, ask experts which breeds fit your living situation and location.
- Veterinary and grooming: Maintain the dog’s health and hygiene. A healthy dog with trimmed nails is unlikely to harm or cause damage. Spay or neuter your dog as soon as feasible.
- Play: Exercise can improve your dog’s behavior.
- Training classes: These can correct behavioral issues.
Sources
[1] American Veterinary Medical Association. “U.S. pet ownership statistics.” [2] Insurance Information Institute. “Spotlight on: Dog bite liability.” [3] National Association of Insurance Commissioners. “Breed-Specific Legislation.” [4] Insurance Information Institute. “What is covered by standard homeowners insurance?.” [5] United Policyholders. “The Ultimate Guide to Home Insurance for Dog Owners.” [6] Insurance Information Institute. “Liability and safety tips for dog owners.”
